Since the emergence of quantum mechanics in the early 20th century, our understanding of how particles behave on the smallest scales has advanced to the point where we can now measure and control their properties. In what is known as the second quantum revolution, scientific research worldwide is focused on leveraging these quantum properties to develop new applications in quantum computing, communication, and sensing:

• Quantum computing utilizes quantum mechanical effects such as superposition and interference to solve certain problems faster. While fully functional quantum computers are not yet available, there is a growing global demand to develop them and explore their applications.
• Quantum communication enables secure communication that cannot be eavesdropped on, thanks to quantum mechanical principles such as the no-cloning theorem.
• Quantum sensing takes advantage of the extreme sensitivity of quantum particles to detect changes—such as variations in magnetism—with unprecedented accuracy.

Applications for industry

Translating theory into practice happens through real-world business and scientific cases, where artificial intelligence techniques are combined with quantum computing algorithms. For quantum sensing, researchers seek applications that address societal needs, such as those emerging from the energy transition.

Collaborative partners

Research at Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences is conducted in collaboration with various research groups within the Faculty of Digital Media and Creative Industries (DMCI), including Responsible IT and Urban Analytics, as well as researchers from the Urban Technology group within the Faculty of Technology.

In education, strong connections exist with degree programs such as HBO-ICT, where a quantum computing minor is being developed, Technical Physics, and the Applied Quantum Technology master’s program, which is offered in partnership with Saxion, Fontys, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, and Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences.